Traditional art techniques are beautiful, but they can sometimes have an ugly side. Toxic paint thinners and solvents. Aerosol cans. Certain glazes used in ceramics. In other words, if it smells like it might be bad for the environment, it just might be.

But there’s some good news!

In recent years, we’re seeing more and more artists explore new mediums that reduce their environmental impact, like salt, ice, and even trash. It’s leading to some incredible work.

Joanna’s medium of choice? Fallen leaves.

The Polish artist told Upworthy via email that she painted her first leaf on New Year’s Eve of last year. While all of her friends were getting ready for a party, she spent the whole day painstakingly drying, painting, and coloring – inspired by the brilliant hues of the fireworks in the night sky.

Joanna’s very first leaf painting.

She never thought anyone would care until, she says, a popular art blog shared an Instagram photo of that first leaf, and she suddenly gained thousands of fans.